Pope Francis, the beloved head of the Catholic Church, passed away peacefully on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at 7:35 AM in his residence at Domus Sanctae Marthae in Vatican City. He was 88 years old.
Just a day earlier, the Holy Father had made a brief but deeply moving appearance at Saint Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday. Frail but smiling, he waved to the sea of pilgrims, offering words of hope and unity—a final gift to the faithful he led for over a decade.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on December 17, 1936, he broke many historic barriers when he was elected in 2013: the first Jesuit pope, the first from Latin America, and the first non-European pontiff in over 1,200 years. But it was his deep humanity, humility, and tireless compassion that defined his papacy.
From championing the poor and the environment to pushing for reform within the Vatican, Pope Francis wasn’t afraid to challenge traditions when it meant walking closer to the Gospel. He spoke often of mercy, of care for the marginalized, and of building bridges in a divided world.
Despite recent health battles, including a serious bout of pneumonia earlier this year, he remained committed to his mission until the very end.
The Vatican has now entered a time of mourning. Flags are flying at half-mast, bells toll softly across Rome, and the faithful gather in prayer. Soon, the College of Cardinals will meet to choose his successor—but for now, the world pauses to remember the man who, simply put, wanted to be known as “a shepherd.”
Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of love, simplicity, and bold hope—one that will echo through the Church for generations.
